Martin Canning extends Hamilton playing contract by 12 months

Hamilton boss Martin Canning has rewarded himself with a fresh 12-month playing contract, it has been confirmed.

The 34-year-old player/manager has largely stationed himself in the dug-out since replacing Alex Neil in January last year.

But the defender did register three appearances last term, with his last start coming in October’s 4-2 defeat at home to St Johnstone.

A post from Accies’ official Twitter account said: “Player/manager Martin Canning has extended his playing contract until end of next season.”

Canning - who penned a one-year rolling contract to manage the New Douglas Park outfit after Neil’s departure to Norwich - guided his side to Ladbrokes Premiership safety for the second year running after Accies finished 10th.

But he admitted earlier this month he was not ready to hang up his boots.

“I’m ticking along in terms of the manager contract and I’ll probably sign on for another year as a player,” he said.

“I will certainly be available to play and maybe try and help the kids by playing some under-20s games.

“I’m keen to play. I’ll do pre-season. People tell me you’re ready to retire when pre-season makes you feel sick but I’m not there yet.

“I’m looking forward to get going again. If I can play a part I’ll be there to do it.”

Meanwhile, Danny Redmond has also extended his Hamilton stint to May 2018.

The 25-year-old former Wigan youngster has scored seven goals in 58 appearances for the Lanarkshire outfit over two spells with the club.